Is the rural school bus system sustainable?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

With all this pride and jubilation about the pending school bus system in Jamaica by the current Administration, permit me to underscore a few noteworthy idea.

First, a bus system was indeed a necessity I am befuddled that the Government would make an handsome investment in second hand buses. Wouldn’t it be better to invest in some new Coaster buses with Jamaica’s unique brand and style? Each school would be offered one of these buses with the school’s name.

Did they consider the possible mechanical flaws and the strain to the country’s budget when these ‘used’ buses start to malfunction?

Whether or not also, we are accepting of this ,culture and norms are primary factors that probably were not considered while selecting these buses. Scores of students will be reluctant to ride in these buses, especially some of the high schoolers. One should not be surprised if these buses go about empty. As absurd as this idea may sound I fully know the mindset of the students I have taught over the years. They haven’t grown with this big, yellow bus system. Do we not know that there could have been the implementation of a well structured bus system that would be more welcoming by the students without trying to pattern other countries?

Implementation of the bus system also is a crucial factor, I’m hoping the Government would have already seriously considered. I have taught in the United States for the past five years and what I have noted is that the school bus system is not merely providing buses, but it is a uniformed, well structured process that is fully accountable for every single child that rides on any bus. Many of these buses in the US have cameras and bus drivers are able to issue referrals or other disciplinary measures to erring students. These are other strict guidelines that have to be sanctioned by the schools, parents and all relevant stakeholders. The Government should not just be ‘unloading’ these big yellow monsters on the road but also detail the implementation plans? If we are going to copy other countries we should be willing to copy their best practices.

Also, are the roads conducive for these buses? If a bus system is in place, it is only fair that every ‘nook and cranny’ of the island benefits.

I really hope that this introduction of the school bus system is not simply to generate election scores, but rather a well thought over plan analysing pros and cons by all relevant stakeholders.

MARY LEAMY